India has agreed to fast-track the withdrawal of its military personnel from the Maldives.
In a press release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided details of the first meeting of the High-Level Core Group between the Maldives and India which took place on January 14. During the meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both sides reviewed the existing bilateral cooperation.
Discussions were held on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including development cooperation. Both sides expressed willingness to intensify cooperation and agreed to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. The ministry stated that it was agreed that the second meeting of the High-Level Core Group will be held at a mutually convenient time.
The Maldives and India have held 12 meetings on the issue so far. In a document submitted to the meeting on January 14, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu instructed the Indian government to withdraw its troops from the Maldives by March 15.